Google Photos could soon let you convert photos into videos based on custom text prompts.
SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty ImagesKey TakeawaysGoogle Photos is finally giving users control over “Photo to Video” conversions.An unreleased feature found in the Android App suggests users will be able to write their own prompts.International rollout remains a challenge: The Photo to Video feature is currently only available in the U.S.
Google Photos is preparing to give users complete creative control over its AI-powered “Photo to Video” video creation tool. A new update, currently in testing, will allow users to direct the action they want to see in the videos generated from their photos, moving beyond the limited “Subtle movement” and randomized “I’m feeling lucky” options currently available.
One of the most significant upgrades to Google Photos in recent times is the addition of the new “Create” tab, which consolidates all of Google Photos’ creative tools, including the recently released Photo to Video feature that utilizes Google’s Veo 3 video model.
Now, a deep dive into the latest version of the Google Photos Android app by app expert AssembleDebug at Android Authority has uncovered a hidden feature that provides a much-needed creative upgrade.
Google Photos Photo To Video: Write Your Own Prompts!
The discovery reveals a new “Write your own…” prompt box within the app’s code, suggesting users will soon be free to describe any video they like by writing a text description. While the feature isn’t yet live, it signals Google’s intention to offer greater creative control in the near future.
However, Google currently restricts many of its advanced AI features, including Photo to Video, to U.S. users. A recent in-app pop-up message announced the feature to international users, leaving them disappointed to find that the feature remains unavailable outside the U.S., even in its current restricted form.
Google’s cautious approach to generative AI in Google Photos prioritizes safety, protecting users against the creation of harmful or misleading content, but also offers less creative freedom than dedicated AI apps. Providing users with the ability to direct their own video clips is a significant step towards bridging this gap, and Google will likely implement robust safeguards before launch.
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